Depending on where they are, MVPs around the world are gearing up for or winding down from one of Microsoft’s signature technology events, TechEd.

While TechEd is traditionally an important event for the MVP community, this year it has special significance. Twenty years ago, when Microsoft launched this world-class recognition program, one of the benefits of receiving the MVP Award was an invitation to attend TechEd.

“There were about a dozen of us there in March of 1993,” recalled Calvin Hsia, one of the inaugural 34 MVPs. “Most of us meeting in person for the first time after all those interactions on CompuServe. We loved it.” (You can read more about Calvin and his influence on the MVP Award here.)

A lot has changed in the past two decades. Now, as recognized community leaders and technology experts, many MVPs attend TechEd as featured speakers and presenters. Microsoft no longer invites them to gather at TechEd to meet with members of its product teams, but instead at the private MVP Global Summit. And there is no longer just one TechEd: there are TechEd events around the world.

TechEd Africa was held last month in Durban, South Africa. There, five MVPs and three MVP candidates contributed their expertise as speakers. Out of the 222 sessions, MVPs delivered 15 of them.

Next month, MVPs will be gathering at TechEd North America and TechEd Europe for what is recognized as offering the most comprehensive education across Microsoft's current and soon-to-be-released suite of products, solutions, tools, and services.

As they have for many years now, MVPs will be serving as popular speakers and helping others learn how to make the most of Microsoft technologies through hands-on experiences. You can register or find out more about TechEd North America here and TechEd Europe here.